Gawler East’s new water tank project hits major milestones

Gawler East is one step closer to an enhanced, more resilient local water network, after reaching major milestones in the construction of a new $17.7 million 3-megalitre reinforced concrete water storage tank.

Following the demolition of the former smaller structure, which had reached the end of its operational life, around 375 cubic metres of concrete has been poured to complete the base slab and two stages of the new tank’s shell.

SA Water’s General Manager of Growth Amanda Lewry said the concrete pours were undertaken safely and successfully and put the project in good stead for the remaining stages of work.

“The new tank nearly triples the size of the previous storage, which once completed and connected to the existing network, will help supply safe, clean drinking water to more than 6,000 existing customers and support growth across the region as additional new homes connect,” Amanda said.

“Our recent work involved deploying 2 concrete boom pumps – specialised machinery designed for large-scale concrete pours – to deliver the concrete at a consistent, controlled rate, and around 25 skilled professionals coordinated the operation to ensure precise placement and achieve a high-quality finish.

“We’re also using what’s called ‘greener concrete’, which is a more sustainable alternative to standard concrete mix, as it generates around 50 per cent less carbon emissions from cradle to gate.

“This concrete is made up of 65 per cent Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag, a by-product of the iron-making industry replacing the clinker-based Portland cement that demands high energy.

“The greener concrete will also enhance the durability of the water tank, increasing its resistance to harmful agents and deterioration, prolonging its lifespan and reducing any service interruptions for our customers.”

The tank project is in addition to the $1.5 billion investment in critical water and sewer infrastructure through the State Government’s Housing Roadmap – delivered by SA Water – to unlock capacity for new homes to be built throughout Adelaide’s northern and southern growth fronts.

“We’ve now completed all three major concrete pours for this project, so crews will now focus on curing the tank walls to enhance the strength and durability of the structure,” Amanda said.

“Temporary circular formwork was constructed to support the concrete pour for the tank wall, and the concrete is reinforced by steel rebars for structural integrity.

"Once the new tank wall is up, the roof and internal pipework will be installed, ahead of a standard testing and commissioning process. Next year, the site will also be revegetated, prioritising native plants and grasses.”

To ensure a continued supply of water to customers during the tank upgrade, bypass arrangements will remain in place until the new tank is operational. The project is expected to be completed by mid-2026.

For more information, visit watertalks.sawater.com.au.